Home security is a hot topic today.
Home surveillance systems, home alarm systems and many other topics come up on a regular basis.
The increased rate of home invasion and burglary that affects urban and suburban areas has even moved into rural areas that were once largely free of these problems.
What steps should a homeowner take to protect their home, their family and their belongings? What are the best solutions to the growing need for increased security and protection? The first step that any homeowner should take is to invest in a home security system.
However, there are a few caveats to this rule.
First, the "do-it-yourself" alarm systems sold in stores are next to useless.
These may monitor your home and produce a loud siren alarm when an intruder is detected, but they do nothing more.
A professionally installed, professionally monitored home alarm system is the only option that a homeowner should consider.
These systems are much more advanced than they once were and can now automate the process of alerting authorities to an invader.
The second step that a homeowner should take is to secure their yard and grounds.
Many consumers do not equate home security with a well-maintained yard; however, the correlation is there.
Many burglars prefer to invade homes with overgrown hedges around the house and the fence.
These provide cover for the burglar as they advance on the home.
A home with a well-maintained yard, tidy shrubs and no cover for a burglar is often passed over in favor of a home that is more conducive to the burglar's need for stealth and secrecy.
Not to mention, it suggests to the burglar that the homeowner is gone for long periods at a time.
Next on the list is securing the exterior of the home.
This can include many different things and will require that the homeowner take a long, hard look at their home.
Are the doors easily kicked down? Are there glass windows next to the door that a burglar could break, reach through and unlock the door? How secure are the ground floor window locks? Installing motion-sensing floodlights around the home can be an excellent option.
These can be placed at all four corners of the home, as well as at the front and back door.
Additionally, front and rear doors that have glass panes should be replaced with solid doors.
While not as visually appealing, these doors offer heightened security.
Finally, all windows that are accessible on the ground floor should be double paned or even reinforced, and should have the stoutest locks possible.
Securing a home takes planning and perspective.
Never leave your security to chance.
Have a professional alarm system installed as soon as possible, but continue to improve your home.
An investment in stronger doors, windows and locks can pay off handsomely with increased security and greater peace of mind.
In addition, a few simple steps taken on the exterior of the home and the yard can significantly reduce the chance of a break-in, by making criminals go in search of easier prey.